More than a year after the brand-new $4.4 million Ted Cunningham Bridge collapsed following heavy rainfall, Council has finally proposed a way forward to re-build 50 metres of the bridge’s approach which was washed away in the incident.

Just before Christmas in 2022, the Ted Cunningham Bridge, which links the townships of Collinsville and Proserpine, was damaged and became impassable when flood waters washed away the easements.

At the time locals were very frustrated because they had already voiced concerns about the materials being used to build the approach.

Locals said that rock and dirt were utilised when they believed it to be essential that a cement causeway be constructed to prevent the approach washing away when flood level rose.

These concerns were realised just four days after the bridge was opened.

It has now taken more than a year for repairs to take place because both the designer and the contractor denied any fault, despite not conducting any flood modelling studies prior to the build.

Whitsunday Regional Council have been negotiating back and forth with the designer and contractor, but it is now considered too lengthy and costly to pursue the matter in court.

As a result, at last week’s Ordinary Meeting, Council agreed to pay a contribution towards the rebuild.

It was agreed that the CEO is now free to negotiate for Council to provide a contribution of up to 50 per cent or $200,000 for to re-instate the approach.

“It has been agreed that the best way forward for all is to reinstate access using a robust concrete causeway and share the costs between the parties,” said the report presented by Michael Downing, Acting Director Infrastructure Services.

“This method avoids a potentially protracted legal case that would only extend the time where the new bridge is not back in use.”

The contractor is currently having flood modelling carried out of the proposed causeway with the modified design and costs still to be finalised.

Mr Downing also commented that he is pleased to see the project move forward to “what should have happened in the first place.”

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50 metres of the Ted Cunningham Bridge collapsed at the end of 2022. Photo supplied

The $4.4 million brand-new bridge has been un-useable for more than 14 months. Photo supplied

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Women’s advocate and Councillor, Jan Clifford, was awarded The Order Of Australia (OAM) over the weekend, and the inspiring local leader says she feels “humbled” to receive such recognition.

“When I first found out, I could barely talk!” said Ms Clifford.

“I was just beside myself – and I am completely humbled, I don’t do it for the recognition or the thanks, I do it because I like helping people.”

Informed of her nomination in September, Ms Clifford says she has no idea which of the many groups she involved with put her name forward.

“I do know that they ring up every organisation that you have anything to do with and check whether you are a passenger or a driver,” she explained.

“I do lots of stuff for people doing it tough and it is an honour to be recognised nationally for everything I do.”

Ms Clifford was born in Melbourne and brought up in West Australia but moved to Airlie Beach in 1994 when she was escaping domestic violence, a subject she has been very open about sharing in order to help others.

Arriving in town 30 years ago, she began working in sales and marketing for South Molle Island before it went into receivership, and she started her own business.

Just a few years later in 1996, she won an Australian Federation of Travels Agents Award for Sales and Marketing, an accolade she still holds dear.

“I always liked to help people in their tourism businesses,” she recounts.

Ms Clifford was put into the spotlight again when she became a strong advocate for responsible development in Airlie Beach, joining groups such as Save Our Foreshore, Loot for the Lagoon, and Save Our Airport.

She was also a driving force behind the Airlie Beach Chamber of Commerce for many years and her experience across all platforms led to her current position as a Councillor for Whitsunday Regional Council.

“From the year 2000 onwards, I used to go to a lot of Council meetings,” she shared.

“I didn’t like the way the 4802 postcode was being treated by the predominantly Proserpinian Council, I felt they were making some bad decisions.”

Her attendance at Council meetings organically led to her candidacy and she was elected Councillor in 2008, a position she has held since then.

During her time as a public figure, Ms Clifford has been an active member of several organisations, including the Australian Local Government Women's Association, Australian Local Government Women's Association Queensland, Whitsunday Housing Company, and among several others.

Her most significant role is the President of the National Rural Women's Coalition.

“When I started work back in the dark ages, I would be lucky to get paid half as much as a bloke would get paid for doing the same job,” she recalls.

“There was no maternity leave and the pay gap was extraordinary.

“I have always been outspoken and demonstrated against things I believe in, and I will always continue to advocate for women and women’s rights.”

Ms Clifford will be awarded her OAM when she attends a formal ceremony at Parliament House, the date of this is yet to be announced.

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Local leader, Jan Clifford, was honoured to receive an OAM on Australia Day. Photos supplied

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The sailing community is mourning as one of its vibrant personalities sadly passed away just before Christmas, leaving behind her loving husband of 41 years.

Annie Judd was a beautiful woman who will be remembered for her engaging character, enthusiasm, and desire to spread love and joy to whomever she met.

She met her husband, John, in Port Lincoln four decades ago, the two of them were married in Thailand in 1992 and have been inseparable since.

They’ve enjoyed a full and exciting life, travelling the world, and running a successful marine business together for many years.

A lover of culture and travel, Annie was also a conscious community member, offering her help with a variety of local charities and events over the years.

She was farewelled by over a hundred people at a memorial service held at the Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina, on Sunday.

Everyone wore her favourite colour orange, and her niece Kristen Zacher wrote a eulogy for her much-loved aunt.

Her words resonated with many people in the room as she described a woman who was always encouraging people to love and connect.

“She was the person keeping the Judd side of the family connected,” said Kristen.

“Calling to see how we were, asking if we had talked to others in the family and encouraging us to do so.”

Annie was also known as a great friend to many, known for her love, honour, loyalty, and kindness.

“We had the privilege of knowing a vibrant and energetic, down-to-earth, generous, kind, talkative person who had a fantastic sense of humour and faced any challenges head on and was willing to help those she loved in any way she could,” shared Kristen.

Our thoughts are with family at this very sad time.

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Annie Judd sadly passed away on 9th of December 2023. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council have granted preliminary approval to the resort complex proposed for the Port of Airlie.

The complex, submitted by Meridien, detailed in their preliminary approval application, has specified 102 units of accommodation, primarily suited for family units, tours groups and sporting teams, with rooms for four or eight occupants in each.

Included in the proposed development is also a restaurant with waterfront terrace dining, a dive school and training pool, a bar with waterfront terrace, a waterfront lounge and function centre, a swimming pool, games room, communal laundry and kitchen, and a gym.

The proposed structure is made up of a four-storey building, with a maximum height of 18.8 metres at its highest points, and includes five flexible, non-traditional accommodation types.

Capable of accommodating up to 454 guests, the development’s preliminary approval means it can move forward with creating more detailed designs of the complex, which is set to be brought to Council to approve before construction can formally begin.

Council has previously entered an infrastructure agreement with the applicant, with the provision of constructing an additional 50 car parking spaces, on top of the already proposed 54 car spaces and two mini-bus spaces.

The complex plans must be resubmitted to council once more solidified plans are drawn up, for Council’s permission.

This complex is proposed to be constructed to the right of the Port of Airlie, on the vacant plot of land to the right of the Cruise Whitsundays Terminal.

Please note, this complex is unrelated to the high-rise complex that was approved by Council in 2021, which subsequently went to the Planning and Environments Court in an appeal launched by the group Save Our Foreshore.

This approved resort is planned to be 47.7 metres tall.

The Planning and Environment Court ruled in Council’s favour, and the complex is legally allowed to begin, however the applicant body, Meridien is currently in receivership.

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Architect’s depiction of the exterior of the new complex. Images: Application Documents

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A retirement village and residential subdivision has been seriously proposed to be constructed in Jubilee Pocket, with Whitsunday Regional Council moving to grant approval for an access through-road connecting Erromango Drive and Saint Bees Boulevarde, in preparation for the massive development.

The 640-metre-long trunk road is Stage 1 of the proposed works, with the 45-hectare plot of land to be subdivided into 197 residential allotments, and 230 multi-unit accommodation dwellings with a community centre for the adjoining retirement village.

Initially submitted to Whitsunday Regional Council in late 2022, the development was deemed as code assessable, therefore public notification was not required.

The development application, in particular for the retirement village proposal, explained that “A residential use of premises for accommodation for older members of the community, or retired persons, in independent living units or serviced units.”

“Where ancillary the use may include amenity and community facilities, a manager’s residence, health care and support services, preparing food and drink or staff accommodation.”

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The proposed development layout. Images: Development application

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When Cindy made the big relocation from the Central Coast of New South Wales to the beautiful beachside town of Bowen, she was pleasantly welcomed into town by friendly and accommodating locals.

“That’s the first thing that my husband and I noticed,” Cindy explained.

“We were walking down the main street and everyone was waving and saying hello to us! It was just so lovely.”

Now a member of the Bowen Tourism and Business team, at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre and beside the beloved Big Mango, Cindy’s new role is Sales and Administration Assistant, which sees her directly communicating with visitors as they check into the Big Mango.

Often recommending the best experiences for visitors, Cindy also assists Bowen Tourism and Business in promoting Bowen to wider audiences, through marketing and promotion, helping visitors book both local accommodation and experiences, and supporting the Manager and Bowen Tourism and Business members.

“I am still learning, but the team have been amazing, and I am so grateful to be here,” Cindy explained.

“We have felt right at home in Bowen, and we want to thank every single person for having us in this gorgeous little town.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said Cindy was a fantastic addition to the team.

“Cindy is only new to Bowen but loves the town and the region and has already learnt so much about our many  attractions.

“Her past experience in administration and her previous travel experiences,  coupled with her passion for tourism, have made her the perfect fit for the role.”

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Despite some interesting reporting and forecasting, the Whitsundays is still open for business and has not been blown away or drowned in a rain bomb!

In late December we prepared for Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Last week, our focus turned to figuring out and preparing for what eventually became Tropical Cycle Kirrily. The Whitsundays fared well on both occasions, considering what might have been.

Both events reinforced the need and importance of staying vigilant, being well-informed, and calmly prepared for emergencies. We have posted details of free resources available to businesses on our website.

In times of natural disasters and emergencies, business insurance becomes an essential service and often a complex one.

Businesses need affordable and attainable insurance to operate freely, borrow money, employ staff, and comply with their statutory obligations.

To this end, the Chamber has lent its support to a 2024-25 Federal Budget Submission developed by the Townsville Chamber of Commerce in collaboration with a number of Northern Queensland Chambers. The submission offers four recommendations that aims to create parity in the insurance market for Northern Australia. We look forward to sharing the submission in full in due course.

As come to the end of January the Chamber looks forward getting stuck into 2024!

A wise business partner passed on some thoughts I would like to share when considering business aspirations for the new year.

Are you counting the minutes you work ….. or the impact of those minutes? Are your business metrics reflecting and measuring genuine progress…or just numbers to make you feel good? Is your business success measured in the steps you take or the destinations those steps take you.

We all often count the wrong things. Long hours don’t always mean productivity. Having lots of meetings is not as effective or productive as fewer well-structured meetings. Counting short-term gains can sacrifice the seeds of future growth - sustainable success is a marathon, not a sprint. Counting and slavishly following KPIs can lead to tunnel vision and neglect of qualitative factors like…Customer experience, employee well-being, and the bigger picture.

Quality over quantity. Work smarter not harder. Good advice for us all.

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What is your role at Tourism Whitsundays?

I manage the Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre located at the Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation in Proserpine. My focus is to assist travellers to our beautiful region and connect them with the local operators. I am also the go-to person for the fabulous Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors. 

What is your ideal weekend in The Whitsundays?

My ideal weekend is to jump on one of my friends' boats and cruise between the islands while trying to spot dolphins and whales during the winter. Then making a stop on one of the islands for a wander, swim, and snorkel. We are so fortunate here to have that much natural beauty all around us. 

How long have you been in the Whitsundays? 

I have lived here 11 years. I came to Australia six months before that on a Working Holiday Visa and fell in love with the region during my road trip along the East Coast of Queensland. I have never looked back.    

What's the one thing about The Whitsundays you think everyone should know? 

If you have not yet experienced it, I suggest taking a scenic flight over the islands and the Great Barrier Reef. I will never forget the first time I saw the magnitude and beauty of the world's largest coral reef system; it took my breath away.  

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After 25 years in office, Councillor and Former Mayor Michael Brunker is hanging up his hat and retiring from positions in local government.

With a career spanning advocating for massive industrial proposals to vouching for the little man at regular Council Ordinary Meetings, Brunker’s influence and hard work have left an indelible mark on the Whitsundays region.

Brunker started his adult career following in his father’s footsteps, working as a diesel fitter with the Collinsville mine.

Then, in 1994, he made the leap into local politics, running for Councillor for Collinsville, in an effort to oppose the plan to close the Collinsville Council Depot.

Having won the election and successfully combatted the depot closure, Brunker decided to progress his local government career further and campaigned for the role of Mayor of the Bowen Shire Council in 1997.

Having secured his first term as Mayor, he lead the Bowen Shire Council as it amalgamated with other local governments, to form the now Whitsunday Regional Council, and continued to be Mayor for over 15 years.

Brunker unfortunately lost his first and only Local Government election in 2012, running for a second term as Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, however he returned to his seat as Bowen Divisional Councillor in the 2016 Local Government elections.

He has continued to hold this seat for two terms, until his political retirement in 2024.

A highlight of his career has been advocating for the 16,000 hectares at Abbot Point which was deemed a State Development Area in 2008, allowing the Port of Abbot Point to be established as a large-scale industrial development, which now has an export capacity of 50-million tonnes of coal per year.

Mike’s Local Government career is a testament to a local standing up for locals, of strong advocacy and dedication to his community.

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The Little Diggers Day Care Centre in Collinsville is now comfortably able to continue its services while awaiting government accreditation thanks to $10,000 worth of funding given by the Whitsunday Regional Council to help with operational costs.

The only day care centre in Collinsville is currently waiting for the government tick to be able to process the childcare subsidies that will offer parents on average between 50 and 85 percent off their childcare fees.

At the moment, parents are having to pay around $70 per day for the service which, committee member and Collinsville State School Principal, Matt Gee, says is often preventing them from re-entering the workforce.

In addition, the fees are also not currently able to cover the full operational costs of the not-for-profit business.

Established in 2019, Little Diggers is the passion-project of four dedicated committee members and parents who came together to ask a simple question – why is there no daycare in Collinsville?

The only small family daycare centre, that took four children in total, closed that year when the educator moved away and meant there was no-where in town for babies and toddlers to receive childcare so their parents could work.

“I was struggling to get staff members - when they found out there was no daycare,” said Mr Gee.

“Mining companies said they were also having the same problem; it was a real issue for us.”

This prompted Mr Gee and the rest of the committee to identify a disused pre-school at the Collinsville State School site as a potential location for the daycare and they subsequently received government permission to use the facility.

A combination of State Government, Whitsunday Regional Council, Glencore and QCoal funding and assistance soon saw the abandoned building transformed into the new daycare and Little Diggers was born.

During the entire process the small local committee were the driving force behind every aspect, and it is their dedication that guided the whole project forward.

“It was very exciting to see it come to fruition as it took four years to get it up off the ground!” said Mr Gee.

“If someone had told us in the beginning how challenging it was, I am not sure we would have done it, but I am very glad we did!”

The doors to Little Diggers opened just over a year ago and the daycare is now extremely close to receiving government subsidies.

When this happens it will be a game changer for the centre that currently employs six staff and has 19 children registered.

“We’ve got people on the wait list who can’t afford it at the moment,” shared Mr Gee.

“When the rebate comes in, we will be able to employ more staff, open 10 hours a day and take up to 27 children.”

Councillor Michelle Wright has been a strong supporter of Little Diggers, and says she is glad Council could help ensure its continued operation.

“It is a fantastic facility and, as a not for profit, they’re moving leaps and bounds ahead for Collinsville,” she said.

“It’s wonderful to have this service, well done to everyone involved.”

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The graduating class of 2023 at Little Diggers in Collinsville. Photo supplied

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As students get into the motion of the new school year, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated. The back-to-school season brings not only the excitement of learning but also potential stressors that can impact a student's wellbeing. It's crucial to prioritise mental health, foster resilience in the face of challenges.

Here are some essential tips for students navigating the academic landscape:

1. Acknowledge and Normalise Feelings: It's okay to feel a mix of emotions when heading back to school – excitement, nervousness, or even a touch of anxiety. Acknowledge these feelings as normal reactions to change. Sharing your emotions with friends, family, or a trusted adult can help alleviate the burden.

2. Establish Healthy Routines: A well-balanced routine plays a key role in maintaining mental health. Ensure you get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular physical activity. Establishing these habits can contribute significantly to overall well-being and resilience.

3. Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: Schoolwork can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when faced with a pile of assignments. Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach not only makes the workload seem less daunting but also provides a sense of accomplishment with each completed task.

6. Prioritize Self-Care: Amidst academic pressures, it's essential to prioritize self-care. Take time for activities you enjoy, hobbies that bring you joy, and moments of relaxation. Balancing work and leisure contributes to a positive mindset and resilience.

7. Know When to Seek Professional Help: If stress or mental health concerns become overwhelming, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. School counsellors, therapists, or mental health professionals can provide valuable support and guidance tailored to individual needs.

Building resilience is an ongoing process that involves self-awareness, healthy habits, and a supportive environment. By prioritising mental health and implementing these tips, students can navigate the challenges of the school year with greater strength and resilience, fostering a positive and successful academic journey.

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Top Tips For Self Care

• Be Kind To Yourself
• Establish a Positive Routine
• Connect with Friends
• Make a Vision Board

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This Valentine’s Day, experience the difference of the Jubilee Tavern, keeping the kids entertained and the adults indulged, with a menu that caters to every tastebud.

Enjoy the salt and pepper calamari, dig into a succulent sirloin steak, or fall in love with the tasty chicken parmy, the team behind Jubilee Tavern have excitedly ventured out of common grounds, with dish variety that continues to excite.

In fact, Area Chef Kevin Eldridge own favourite is the unique Mexican parmy, a twist on the Aussie parmy that delivers your favourite classic in a packed flavour profile.

Now celebrating over three years on the menu, this dish has become a Tavern staple, and cannot be removed from the menu without upset.

“With spiced beef mince, mozzarella, jalapenos, sour cream, guacamole, salsa and salad, it’s beautiful,” explained Kevin.

“We did try to take it off the menu three years ago, but we faced all this backlash from customers who absolutely loved it, so we couldn’t get rid of it!”

With a jampacked specials menu that rotates on a weekly basis, the Jubilee Tavern is your one-stop-shop for a good time.

“We have our weekly special of 2 for $35 pizzas on Tuesday, our Monday to Friday lunch deals, which includes the chicken schnitzel, beef rissoles, carbonara, and fish of the day,” explained Kevin.

“We also have all day dining on Saturday and Sunday, and of course, Kid’s eat free on Sunday, from 12pm to 2.30pm.”

However, the Jubilee Tavern does not stop there, this much-loved establishment is excited to host another romantic date night for guests this Valentine’s Day.

“On our Valentine’s Day Special menu are beautiful fresh oysters, with a lovely salmon and mushroom risotto,” explained Kevin. “A romantic menu for the romantic day.”

With children sure to be busy exploring the kids’ zone, parents are treated to a Valentine’s Day sure to be perfect.

“Don’t miss having one of our decadent desserts as well this Valentine’s Day!” said Kevin.

“Our desserts are all house made and beautiful, perfect to indulge this Valentine’s Day. We have a light cheesecake with ice cream, or the favourite sticky date pudding, or try the special cake of the day and share between the two of you.”

And not to mention the special Valentine’s Day surprise they have prepared, just for the loved-up couples set to call into the Tavern, it will be a very special evening.

“We’re calling it our Surprise and Delight so let us know you’re coming for Valentine’s Day, and we’ll make your night extra special!”

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Kevin Eldridge and his team at Jubilee Tavern. Photo: Bronte Hodge

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This Valentine’s Day, let romance and love wash over you with this special evening catered by the dedicated team at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.

This bespoke and intimate evening, set to the beautiful backdrop of the pristine Whisper Bay and Coral Sea, speaks to love and romance.

When you and your loved one arrive, take a sip from a chilled glass of bubbles, relax at your table and indulge in the sumptuous five course menu, carefully curated by Whisper Restaurant Head Chef Troy Fuller.

“We begin with a platter of freshly shucked oysters with ponzu dressing, a Japanese citrus dressing which tastes of lemon, with sweet and sour nods,” Troy explained.

“Our second course is a selection of zucchini, both charred and pickled, with lemon labneh, dill oil and tempura zucchini, which is a light course that eases our couples into the third course.

“Our third course is a seared kingfish, on a bed of pearl cous cous, gin-soaked raisins, toasted pine nuts, and citrus gel,” Troy explained.

“Fourth is the main course, with Riverina eye fillet, a fricassee of wild mushrooms, shitake and black garlic puree, on a bed of spring onion and potato gratin.”

Troy and his team are sending this romance-laden evening off with a delectable fifth and final course.

“This dessert is special; one we’ve created ourselves.

“We call it a Tirimi-Tart, a chocolate tart shell, filled with coffee crème pat, vanilla mascarpone, and chocolate tuille, and served with fresh and pureed strawberries. Rich and decadent, we are excited to finish this evening out with a bang!”

To reserve your Valentine’s Day, visit whisperginbar.com

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Reserve your beautiful blooms early this Valentine’s Day, with this local family business, Karen Hill Floral Design, which will be fully stocked and ready to supply everyone with bespoke and custom floral arrangements and bouquets.

With Karen’s roses most popular, this highly-respected local florist recommends getting orders in early to ensure your loved ones receives the flowers they deserve this Valentine’s Day.

“My roses are coming from South America, they are very big and beautiful,” Karen explained.

“I find the import roses are much stronger in the stems, double the amount of petals and, a bonus for us florists, no thorns!”

However, Karen also stocks a wide variety of Australian natives.

“I highly recommend our Australian natives as well; they will be amazing. We always sell out and numbers will be limited. So, get in early for these!”

With 2024 being Karen’s 36th Valentine’s Day as a florist, she is more than ready to cater for and create the most perfect floral arrangement.

“The reason I do what I do is because I love the emotional side of the business,” she explained.

“I get to put my troubles aside and focus on making other people happy. As a third-generation florist, master florist, I'm able to come to work and make a difference on many levels for your loved ones.”

“I absolutely love what I do, the smiles and gratitude is overwhelming sometimes, that's the reason I'm here and the reason I'm your community florist first.”

Karen also has great range gifts, including candles, lotions, and diffusers, which add a little something extra to the bouquet.

“All this and much more are online at www.airliebeachflorist.com.au until sold out. And I must stress, we will sell out so get in early!”

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Karen Hill and her daughter Maddy, at her florist, getting ready for Valentine’s Day. Photo: Bronte Hodge

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Share the gift of love and romance with local, handmade gifts, at your fingertips at Whitsunday Creatives.

With over 25 small local businesses showcasing their merchandise under one roof, Whitsunday Creatives is located in the heart of Proserpine and is an easy one-stop-shop for all your Valentine’s Day shopping.

Why not construct your own romantic hamper, stuffed full of fragrant candles, silky body butters and lotions, delicate earrings and bag charms?

You could then complete the loved-up hamper with a bespoke and beautifully arranged floral bouquet, all elegantly arranged by Whitsunday Creatives owner and operator Trinity Rollison.

“We have an amazing range available in store, which is constantly being restocked with best sellers and new items, so no two days are the same!” Trinity explained.

“You can come and put together the best, most personal and perfect Valentine’s Day hamper for your beau all in one shop and ensure that your significant other has the best Valentine’s Day possible!”

And with pre-order available, Trinity can guarantee that your love-bug will receive exactly what their hearts desired.

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